Frame shop closing after 75 years

TUPELO – After 75 years, a Tupelo family-owned business is closing its doors for good.
Kenney’s Fine Picture Framing has been run by the Kenney family since 1937.
Mayor Jack Reed Jr. said his family has frequented the business for years.
“The Kenney family has been a model of the best in Tupelo’s family businesses: cordial, creative, conscientious, competitive and capable,” he said. “Most importantly they treat their customers as their friends. I wish them only the best in their retirement. They will be missed.”
Leon Kenney begin framing 75 years ago on the second floor of his home on Allen Street. His living room served as the showroom.
His son, Bob, and his daughter, Martha Kenney Stevens, kept the business running since their father’s death in 1992.
“Framing was always kind of a hobby” for his dad, Bob Kenney said. “He was a fine wood craftsman.”
The elder Kenney gradually added on to the home over the years, building a studio out back that now serves as the main shop.
Leon Kenney retired from the U.S. Postal Service in 1965 and begin working full time on his business.
A comedian and magician, Bob Kenney has juggled being on the road and working in Tupelo until just a few years ago.
“Tupelo was always home,” he said.
“I enjoy all our customers – quite a wonderful group of people – but I want more time to spend on other things,” Kenney said.
Kenney is not taking new customers at the frame shop and is wrapping up previous orders. He will continue his business restoring vintage posters and transferring 16-mm film and VHS tapes to DVDs.
sarah.robinson@journalinc.com